Chapter 1 - Introduction 1.0 Introduction As a Unitary Authority the Marlborough District Council has the powers, functions and responsibilities of both a regional and district council. Under the Resource Management Act 1991 (the Act) it therefore has an obligation to prepare a Regional Policy Statement, a Regional Coastal Plan, a District Plan and such other Regional Plans as are necessary. With its dual responsibilities as both a district and regional authority, the Council has taken the opportunity to integrate the management of the resources of the Wairau/ Awatere area by preparing this combined Regional, District and Coastal Plan, known as the ‘Wairau/ Awatere Resource Management Plan’ (the Plan). 1.1 Areas to Which the Plan Applies This Plan applies to the Wairau/ Awatere Plan area as defined on the planning maps, Volume Three of the Wairau/ Awatere Resource Management Plan. The northern landward boundary adjoins that of the Marlborough Sounds Resource Management Plan and approximately follows the ridgeline of the Bryant and Richmond Ranges. The coastal boundary runs between Whites Bay to the north and Willawa Point in the south. The outer coastal limits extend 12 nautical miles out to sea. From Willawa Point the boundary generally extends inland along the Inland Kaikouras then crosses to the seaward Kaikouras at its southernmost extent. The western boundary is delineated along the St Arnaud and Richmond Ranges. 1.2 Plan Purpose The purpose of this plan is to promote the sustainable management of the natural and physical resources of the Wairau/ Awatere area, including the coastal environment and to promote the integrated management of that area. In particular, the plan sets out the significant issues relating to: Natural Character; Indigenous Flora and Fauna and their Habitats; Landscape; Tangata Whenua; Heritage; Air; Water; Public Access; the Coastal Marine area; the Urban Environment; the Rural Environment; Open Space; Land Disturbance; Discharges to Land; Undesirable Plants and Animals; Natural Hazard Management; Hazardous Substances; Land Transportation; Utilities; Outdoor Advertising; Noise and the Subdivision of Land. The Plan sets out objectives, policies and methods including rules to resolve these issues and to promote the sustainable management of the natural and physical resources of the Wairau/ Awatere area. 1.3 Life of the Plan The Council is obliged to commence a full review of the Plan not later than 10 years after the Plan becomes operative. In view of possible resource management issue or policy changes in the District over the next 10 years, provision is made in the Act for changes to the Plan. These may be initiated by the Council or by private request. 1 1